What it means
Current through shift solenoid K does not match the commanded value within tolerance. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Shift solenoid K controls hydraulic flow to a transmission gear element, while the TCM monitors the circuit response to its commands. This code sets when the measured electrical response, such as current, does not match the expected range for solenoid K, even if the circuit is not clearly open or shorted.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Coil resistance drifted
- High-resistance contact
- Sensor element aged beyond calibration window
Symptoms
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
- Possible limp mode (locked in one gear)
- Slipping or shuddering during gear changes
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and note the solenoid K command, transmission temperature, and shift conditions when the range or performance fault appeared.
- Compare live solenoid K command and available current or voltage data with the manufacturer's expected behavior.
- Inspect the solenoid K harness and connector for chafing, water intrusion, corroded terminals, or pins pushed back in the connector.
- Check solenoid K coil resistance and the circuit for excessive resistance or unstable contact, using the manufacturer's specifications.
- If wiring and coil readings are within specification, evaluate solenoid K movement and hydraulic response for a valve that is slow or outside its operating range.
Common fixes
- Repair chafed solenoid K wiring or seal a connector with water intrusion.
- Restore proper terminal contact where a pin is corroded, loose, or pushed back.
- Replace solenoid K if its coil has drifted outside the manufacturer's specification.
- Service or replace the solenoid K valve body assembly if its hydraulic response remains outside the expected range.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid towing, hard acceleration, and long trips if shifting is harsh, delayed, or slipping; a performance fault can progress to limp mode and increase transmission wear. If symptoms are mild, limit driving and have the circuit and valve response checked soon.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.